Europe Open at Stokes Bay Sailing Club

Stokes Bay Europe Open © Dan Vincent

The Stokes Bay Europe Open was a national ranking event, with 16 Europes attending. Hosted by Stokes Bay SC, the Europes had their own start as part of the 'S-BOSH' (Stokes Bay Open for Single Handers).

On both days, the Europes sailed the outer loop of a trapezoidal course. Each race between 50-55 minutes.

Day 1

3 races, 1st start at 13:00. Wind 5-10 knots, from 260 degrees, backing and building through the afternoon. Sunny, blue sky, 20 degrees.Race 1 was 5 knots, pushing against a flooding tide, a tortuous affair meaning a long slow port tack to the lay line, which needed to be way beyond what was normal. For some on the inside, a nice left shift meant gains, however those that held longest on port eventually came good in some increased pressure and right shift. Shortened to one lap. Race 2 slight increase in pressure, and consistent breeze. For race 3, the breeze increased to a lovely 10 knots, marginal hiking. Overnight leader was Andy, with his two 1sts, followed by Jason, then Nigel. Post race dinner followed in the clubhouse, banter and drinks.

Day 2

3 races, 1st start at 10:30. Wind 15-10 knots, from 130 degrees, small shifts. Sunny, blue sky, 22 degrees. Excellent champagne sailing on The Solent. Most of the day spent fully hiked, Oscar flag came out to play, allowing for some great opportunity to pump down the waves. As the day continued, so the wind decreased, however with wind over tide, the runs were great. Standout performance for the day was Jason, with three 1sts, however being pushed all the way, meaning he clinched 1st overall. Rooster vouchers for the prizes.

Overall Results: